Freya The Slayer
‘Completely inappropriate’ Katelin voices concern over 14-storey high-rise plan
Paul Suttor
Kiama MP Katelin
McInerney says it’s “completely inappropriate” for a developer to want to build a 14-storey development in the town centre.
McInerney told The Bugle that she has written to NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully to voice her opposition to the plan by Level 33 to request permission for double the Kiama Council-approved height limits.
Level 33 is set to request the Housing Delivery Authority to allow a much higher development on the corner of Akuna and Shoalhaven Streets.
The developer has dropped its legal action against Kiama Council in the Land and Environment Court and is expected to lobby Housing Minister Paul Scully and the Housing Delivery Authority to have the project declared a State Significant Development, which would effectively sideline Council from limiting its height to the already approved level of seven storeys.
And while Council is aiming to increase the supply of homes in the LGA via its Housing Strategy and the NSW Government is looking to provide solutions to the housing crisis which has gripped the state, McInerney said the Akuna St
HDAproposal would not suit Kiama.
“I don’t wanna see, and neither, quite frankly, does anybody that I speak to want to see Kiama move to a big high-rise here in the main street,” she told The Bugle. “I share those concerns around the proposal. I’ve written to the Minister for Planning and I’ve said it’s completely inappropriate. I can’t see how they would achieve it given how much parking they would have to dig into bluestone. It would be very difficult to make something like that stack up. I’ve got huge concerns about that.”
McInerney has been talking to affected local residents and community groups about the Shoalhaven Street Precinct where a 450home development could proceed after the two-hectare site is rezoned.
“The State Government has been brought in to do a rezoning and I can completely understand the cynicism from people on this and that Council have expressed they want to do things differently,” she said.
“Both State Government and Council being up front with the community going out to community consultation at the rezoning proposal stage to talk about what this two-hectare site could possibly deliver.
“People have put so much love and work into their
homes near the site. Council have communicated the intent is to do this differently because we have an opportunity to do something in town that meets the needs and the community expectations, unlike when a block of land is sold to a developer and it goes out of their control.
“I can understand the concerns of those people in the vicinity. I don’t want something that reaches to the sky here either. We have these beautiful heritage houses nearby that are such a huge part of Kiama’s character. It’s an exciting opportunity which needs to be in line with community expectations. If we don’t do it, we will lose people out of our community that we need.”
McInerney said there was a need to provide options for older people to move out larger family-sized homes.
She noted the role of the Kiama Council Local Housing Strategy and benefit of open community consultation. “It went out to the community twice. One message that’s really clear was we don’t want Kiama sprawling out over the green rolling hills,” she said. “The NSW Labor Government has a very clear mission - we need to build housing. We need to build it much quicker. What we need
for not just our ageing demographic, but the workforce to provide for that.
“The Strategy went out to the community twice. One message that was very clear was the community don’t want Kiama sprawling out over the green rolling hills,” she said.
“The NSW Government has a very clear mission –people need housing and we need to get more keys in doors sooner. What we need more housing not for not just our ageing demographic, but the workforce who provide the services to support them. The Strategy data details
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Community groups taking action over high-rise concerns
Paul Suttor
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ocal residents have formed the Kiama Depot Action Group in response to the rezoning proposal for the Shoalhaven Street Precinct which could result in an eight-storey development.
More than 750 locals signed an online petition and around 60 residents have formed an Action Group to continue the battle against the possibility of 450 homes being built on the twohectare block opposite Kiama Bowls Club.
Kiama Council and the NSW Government have repeatedly said at this stage it is just a rezoning proposal but residents are concerned about a specific R3 rezoning and detailed plans for what is referred to as the “optimum builtform” for the site.
The Kiama Matters Inc community group is also concerned about this development and the plans for multi-storey buildings in Akuna Street and invited Kiama MP Katelin McInerney and local councillors to their meeting last week.
McInerney and Councillors Yasmin Tatrai, Stuart Larkins and Imogen Draisma attended, conducting a Q&A session with the group.
KDAG organisers John and
Jane Littrich are among the many residents whose homes will be affected if the Shoalhaven Street Precinct is constructed as a six- or eight-storey building. This would mean their home and north-facing backyard would only limited winter sunlight if a 28-metre tower was placed as close as four metres from their boundary.
Their neighbour Stella Goodman earlier this year started extensions to the rear of her family home but if the development goes ahead, she and her young family will have also layers of apartments directly over their back fence.
John said the campaign against this development would continue even though the brief timeframe for submissions to the NSW Planning Department ended on Wednesday.
“People can still let Kiama Council know how they feel about this as well. And emailing councillors individually would be great.
The Councillors are saying that they will still have some sort of say in what’s finally built. I don’t believe that will be the case. I think the state government will have control. But if that’s what Council thinks, then we need to tell them what we think.
“We’re also concerned that Council has a financial
investment in this. This certainly raises a question as to whether they are going to reduce their financial return on this to take into account community interests.”
Jane added: “This is the thin edge of the wedge. People can see that if this could happen here, then it could happen elsewhere in Kiama.
“The scale and the density of the development is so out of keeping with not only the local neighbourhood, but Kiama in general.
“It is so out of keeping with the charm, the character of the town, which is a big thing - cultural heritage and how important that is. The site and surrounding neighbourhood are part of the Smiths Farm Heritage Conservation Area.
“Also important is the impact on infrastructure and the lack of services.
There will be a severe impact on the immediately surrounding residents with overshadowing, noise, traffic, privacy issues, etc. But I think it has wider implications in terms of impact of character, infrastructure, environment, sewage and flooding.
“There are numerous elderly residents near the site who are very distressed.”
For Stella, if this development goes ahead at the 6-8 storey level, she said the impact would be “devastating”.
“We have made a major life and financial decision to
extend and also restore our house that is historical. It’s built in the 1800s. So we’re doing our bit to preserve the house in keeping with the neighbourhood and heritage requirements and also to extend the house so that it suits our young family into the future,” she said.
“We’ve started the renovation and restoration and extension and then now to have this bomb dropped on us. If we had have known that this was going to be the type of proposal that it is, it would have definitely changed our plans.
“We moved to Kiama eight years ago because we wanted to live in a small village and it’s just absolutely heartbreaking and distressing the effects that it will have on us and our young family. Extending from psychological to financial to quality of life. It’s distressing.”
John reiterated that KDAG was not opposed to development but they wanted to ensure the Precinct did not turn Kiama into a mini version of Wollongong which has become awash with high-rise developments.
Even though the deadline for submissions expired on Wednesday, residents can still email feedback to rezoningpathways@dpie. nsw.gov.au.
Kiama Matters chair Janet Peters said the group’s goal was to get people engaged in
the process and for them to give their opinions.
Peters said Kiama Matters submitted its thoughts to the NSW Planning Department before Wednesday’s deadline for feedback, “based on what our members are concerned about”.
“It’s disappointing the timeframe for public comment was so short. We think the rezoning proposal is actually a bit of a missed opportunity,” she said.
“What they’re proposing with height limits and density really is an overdevelopment of the site, which is a shame.
“If you ask anyone in Kiama, they’re not opposed to development but the size has just gone over the top and is proposing something that is not the optimal use of that site. It doesn’t fit with the character of the town.
“The community made it pretty clear that they don’t want anything more than three storeys in the outer town and no more than six storeys in the town centre.
“We went through all that in good faith so it’s very disappointing to have this land on us now.”
Peters was re-elected as Kiama Matters chair at the meeting with Ian Robertson vice-chair, David Stevenson treasurer, Sandy Stevenson as public officer, with Lenore Pennington, Julie MacKenzie, Graham Spooner and Carol Goddard on the committee.
Concerned residents at Barney Street.
Photo: The Bugle
The Minnamurra Missile:
Freya strikes gold three times at national titles
Minnamurra schoolgirl Freya McNeilage has been crowned the fastest 10-yearold girl in Australia after winning three gold medals at the National Athletics Championships.
Freya was first across the line in the under 10 girls 100m and 200m finals and she collected a third gold medal as part of the NSW 4x100m relay team at last week’s event in Canberra.
The achievement caps a rapid rise that began only a few months ago, when Freya broke the district, regional and state 100m records, earning her a place at Nationals and catching the attention of the Minnamurra Public School community.
Recognising her talent and the financial challenge of competing interstate, the Minnamurra Public School P&C and local families came together to raise funds to ensure Freya could proudly represent her school and the local region on the national stage. “The neighbours in our street call me the Minnamurra Missile, I wonder if this name will stick over the years,” Freya said.
Freya and her parents, Luke and Ingrid, said they
her coaches, Ian Hatfield and Debbie Holland, whose training programs at Beaton Park and Kiama Leisure Centre have played an important role in Freya’s swift development.
“We were really emotional when we saw footage of the school kids cheering Freya on to win at the school assembly,” Luke said.
“We are really lucky to be part of such a great community.”
Their guidance, encouragement and belief in the young sprinter have helped her build the skills and confidence needed to compete at a national level.
Although she now returns as a triple national champion, Freya says the highlight of her journey wasn't the medals, it was running with her mates in the state championships relay final when the Minnamurra school team narrowly missed out on the podium, and the chance to make new friends from across Australia.
A tour of the Australian Institute of Sport proved another memorable moment, giving Freya a look at world-class training facilities and offering her a glimpse of what a future in high-performance sport could look like.
Freya's success is not only due to her determination and natural speed, but also to the strong community that surrounds her.
Rolling hills or industry?
Locals clash over Sims Road proposal
Mitchell Beadman
As Kiama Council finalises its report on the inclusion of a Gerringong property in its Employment Lands Strategy, an “old bull, young bull” grapple between landowners Wes Hindmarsh and Derek McMahon is being played out.
Hindmarsh, a fifthgeneration landholder, is publicly voicing his concerns that including McMahon’s 5 Sims Road property in Kiama’s Employment Lands Strategy undermines protections for the region’s western rolling hills.
Hindmarsh is a name which echoes throughout the history of the LGA and with a parcel of land passed down through the family since the mid 1800s – the family legacy is shaped not by tradition alone, but by a commitment to doing what is right.
Supported by neighbours Bill Folder and Brian Whatman, they shared a flurry of concerns with The Bugle which Hindmarsh says “flies in the face of the objectives of the zones” with the catastrophic potential to
impact the local biosecurity, agricultural activity and the region’s tourism appeal.
“The thing that grabs me about the whole development is the impact on the activities we undertake here, which could introduce seriously harmful weed seeds to rural lands,” Hindmarsh said.
“It [5 Sims Road] is also in close proximity to the Crooked River Estate vineyard whose owner has invested heavily in the future of the winery and restaurant and shares the biosecurity concerns for the vineyard.
“If it is to be placed into the Employment Lands Strategy, this will introduce industrialisation and in future years from now, the beautiful rolling hills won’t exist, I believe.”
Currently the land surrounding 5 Sims Road is under Zone RU1 Primary Production in the Kiama Local Environmental Plan 2011, and Hindmarsh believes the Employment Lands Strategy will impede on the listed objectives of the Zone.
McMahon has been advocating for his land to be considered within the
‘Inappropriate’:
Continued from Page 1
quite scary facts. The median age of our LGA is 48, the state average is 40. We’ve got around 36% of the population who are 60 and older. This part of our community needs options to downsize into.”
She said most dwellings in the LGA are three and fourbedroom houses. “We have 14% that are two-bedroom and 3% that are one.”
Kiama Council CEO Jane
Strategy and although opinions differ, he still values his neighbours’ concerns.
“No one likes change and no one wants it next door to them – that’s normal,” McMahon said.
“I sympathise for people where there will be an effect for those nearby or neighbouring, the same way that the Housing Strategy is going to affect people.”
McMahon concedes that while his approach is that of “a long view”, soil won’t be turned over straight away if it is successful in being included in the Employment Lands Strategy.
“Should it be identified, there is still a rigorous process in government before anything is approved,” he said.
“We can’t go down there and just do what we want the next day.”
For Hindmarsh and his neighbours, it’s not about being a NIMBY (not in my backyard), but more about protecting what is good for Gerringong and the local region.
“I’d like to keep things the way they are, but the
arguments have got more gravity by the fact that what is being proposed is not a good fit for Gerringong,” Hindmarsh said.
“Kiama Council should seriously consider their position and if they are to honour the Kiama Local Environmental Plan 2011, they wouldn’t proceed with approving that land as an industrial area because of the impact it will have on Gerringong now and into the future.
“It is vitally important that rural lands be preserved for agriculture in its many kinds so that the inhabitants of our growing nation can be reliably fed.”
Kiama Council Director of Strategies and Communities Ed Paterson said Council's planning instruments (i.e. Local Environment Plan and Development Control Plan) are constantly being updated to reflect our evolving world.
"Strategies like the Employment Lands Strategy and the Housing Strategy contain actions to update the Planning instruments to ensure they are living documents," Paterson said.
Katelin opposes Akuna St plan
Stroud reiterated that the Shoalhaven Street Precinct at this stage was “simply asking whether the site is better used as residential rather than industrial”.
“No decisions have been made on height, density or yield,” she said.
“The images and messaging the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure released have caused far too much conjecture and reaction,
and wrongly made people think these designs are a fait accompli. They are not.
“They are indicative only.
The site will still need a Development Control Plan and Development Application.
“Our community will still get a say in those processes.
“Any DCP and DA process will make sure that issues like water, stormwater and traffic are addressed but that is down the track. And not what is
being asked right now which is moving from industrial to residential.
“This site is in the main frame of town, and ticks all the state government boxes for delivering housing in the low to mid rise regulations and policy. Housing in the missing middle of town is a sensible choice to provide much-needed homes, without sprawl or creep into the hills. It just makes sense.”
Bill Folder, Brian Whatman and Wes Hindmarsh.
Photo: The Bugle
Golden Valley development on the horizon with sewer saga resolved
Paul Suttor
Jamberoo’s Golden Valley subdivision is just months away from finally getting underway after developer Fountaindale Group has resolved its long-running saga with Sydney Water.
Fountaindale director Jennifer Macquarie said the tender process for the construction of the roads and services for the 50 lots proposed for Stage 1 of the residential development will begin as early as March after Sydney Water confirmed the homes can be connected to the existing sewer main.
The proposed development to the south-east of the town centre has been in the pipeline since 2017 but it has been delayed by bureaucratic red tape.
Fountaindale had offered to fully fund, design and construct a new main for the picturesque town.
Macquarie wrote to NSW Water and Housing Minister Rose Jackson in August, urging her to intervene and authorise the project to move ahead.
She has been advised that because the town main operates at 30% capacity and only experiences overflow issues due to rainwater during severe weather events, the development can proceed. “Although the
sewer main issue did delay the project for many months, we were not sitting still,” she said.
“We used this time to complete necessary items in preparation for commencement of construction including:
- Finalisation of the design of electrical, sewer and water services within the subdivision
- Signoff on road and drainage designs by Kiama Council and issuing of a construction certificate.
- Installation of new boundary fencing with Hyam Place neighbours
- Developing relationships with local architects and builders who wish to offer home design and construction services to Golden Valley land purchasers.
“Over the next few weeks we will be reviewing our construction program in detail and will be in a position to share a new timeline before the end of the year.”
Macquarie appreciated the patience of the many people interested in buying land, the civil contractors waiting to tender on the construction works, and the designers “who are eager to start work on beautiful homes to suit this unmatched location”.
The lot sizes will be 800 square metres and Macquarie said there were more than 800 potential
buyers who had lodged interest.
After the Stage 1 release, which is now set to be at the end of next year, Fountaindale is proposing another 70 lots for Stage 2.
Macquarie said many people in the Illawarra were keen to move into the area, including a high proportion of couples who are downsizing later in life.
That will have a flow-on effect for the housing market with ageing families selling larger homes that younger homebuyers can move into.
“Given the housing supply crisis, the delivery of 50 new homes will be part of that solution,” Macquarie said.
While there has been some opposition to the development from Jamberoo locals, Macquarie has been thrilled by the number of residents who were in favour of the subdivision providing an economic boost for the town’s shops, cafes, clubs and pub.
A spokesperson said Sydney Water was working closely with Fountaindale to progress the subdivision. “Our latest assessment confirms that the first stage of the development can be serviced by the existing wastewater network. We are continuing detailed investigations and modelling to ensure it performs reliably for current and future customers.”
Jennifer Macquarie.
Photo: Ella Gunning
Gülçin cooks up winning recipe
Saltwater
owner Gülçin Töpel
has been named the national winner in the café category of the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards – and the community she credits for her success has been quick to celebrate with her.
When The Bugle met Töpel to interview her for her award, customers congratulated her from across their tables.
The flow of handshakes, hugs and well-wishes made one thing clear: Töpel isn’t just a business owner in Kiama, she’s a familiar face everyone seems to know.
“It was not easy, to be honest,” she said.
Töpel moved to Kiama from Sydney with her husband in 2020 and bought the café the following year. She grew up in Turkey, raised by her grandparents, and traces her hospitality instincts back to them.
“You know old people always look after, always giving. Maybe it comes from that side. I’m so glad they raised me up,” she said.
Before relocating, she worked in Sydney’s hospitality scene but felt
the culture didn’t align with her values. “They were a bit hungry for money. They don’t respect what we were doing or how the system works,” she said. “I didn’t like how they treated people, so I made my decision and thought I’m not making any money for them. I’ll go somewhere else, try my own business and put in my effort and love.
“Money may help a business grow, but money is not everything. If you don’t have a great heart, you can’t do anything.”
Her husband was the one who pushed for a fresh start – right when she was pregnant and unsure about leaving everything behind.
“I was scared, and I was pregnant at the time,” she said. “I thought, ‘If I’m going to lose my job, what am I going to do?’ But my husband, he’s a very brave man and he said, ‘Okay, let’s go; let’s see what will happen’.”
When they arrived in Kiama, something felt instantly familiar. “I’ve always grown up very close to the community where everyone knows each other,” she said. “Kiama looks like my childhood area, to be honest. That’s
why I ended up here. I’m so happy.”
That sense of community quickly became the backbone of Saltwater’s survival – especially in its early days.
“I came here when they first opened,” a regular joked, “we used to put $20 bills under the salt and pepper shakers to help them out a bit.”
Töpel laughed: “We didn’t know how they got there.
“I was lucky because COVID made people get to know each other.
“People said ‘Oh, you’re going to lose the business’, but it’s always good to try, and I’m not that kind of person to give up. I just push and push and push.”
She says the timing, the effort and the trust of locals have now come full circle.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald praised her award-winning achievement.
“We congratulate Saltwater Café on winning the Women’s Small Business Champion Award. This success is a proud moment for Kiama and an inspiration for womenled businesses across our region,” Cr McDonald said.
“Gülçin has been a
great supporter of many community initiatives and we are thrilled that she has received this outstanding recognition.”
Töpel keeps the same philosophy with her staff and customers. “We’re all human. Today you’re a customer or a worker - it doesn’t matter.
“We have to help each other, that’s it. I don’t call myself boss, to be honest. I don’t like it. I’m a good leader. I’m holding lots of things: food, businesses, community.”
She listens closely to her customers, too. “They bring us ideas. We don’t see what we’re missing, but others will answer and say, ‘Hey, what about this?’”
Saltwater’s most popular dish is the Blue Oscar, though Töpel’s favourite is the Saltwater Basket. “I know, not very healthy - all fried, all the butter - but it’s so yum,” she laughed.
After years of determination, risk and resilience, Töpel said the award is a dream but it also comes with a responsibility to keep lifting the standard.
“We’re all here to make your life easier, and you’re going to make our life easier too,” she said. “We’re all just having fun.”
From Turkey to Terralong: Saltwater success
When the owner of Saltwater Café on Terralong Street, Gülçin Töpel stepped onto the stage to accept the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Award in the café category, she carried with her the story of an immigrant who has spent more than a decade turning hard work into hospitality, community and local jobs.
The Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards are designed to celebrate not just profitability but contributionhow businesses employ locals, support suppliers and show up for their communities.
In the café category, judges look for more than good coffee and a great seafood platter; they look for leadership, resilience and the creation of a identity, all qualities that Saltwater has demonstrated through COVID-19 lockdowns, labour shortages and rising costs.
For Töpel, receiving this and other accolades (Saltwater won the Most Outstanding Restaurant at the 2023 Illawarra & South Coast Local Business Awards) has been deeply personal; she has spoken about her pride in achieving this as an immigrant and her belief that others can do the same, framing the award less as a finish line and more as an invitation for others to back themselves.
On social media, the Saltwater team has cast the win as a victory for “family, friends, staff and community,” a reminder that small business success is rarely an individual act.
After spending her childhood in Adana, a city in southern Turkey, Töpel relocated to Sydney in 2020 where she felt that experience and city had a distinct lack of alignment with her values.
Thankfully, for us, she decided to purchase Saltwater Café in 2021 and the rest as they say is (award winning) history.
“They were a bit hungry for money” she says of the Sydney hospitality industry.
“Money may help a business grow, but money is not everything. If you don’t have a great heart, you can’t do anything.”
For Topel, these words are an important reflection of who she is, why she’s here, and what she wants to contribute. They are certainly not “just talk”.
Immediately after the 2023 Turkey-Syria Earthquake, Töpel donated 100% of Saltwater’s earnings to Turkish charities and was well supported by Kiama locals and visitors.
In the national conversation, immigrants are often reduced to numbers in a population growth spreadsheet, blamed by some for soaring rents and tight vacancy rates and unaffordable house prices.
Concerningly, this narrative is well entrenched across our community’s social media pages. Yet this story is one of many, detailing how migrants expand economic prosperity rather than simply consume it - creating jobs, taking entrepreneurial risks and drawing visitors who spend money in regional towns.
A busy café like Saltwater supports local landlords, food producers and wholesalers, and helps keep Kiama’s high street vibrant, which in turn sustains broader investment and a positive outlook in the town.
As Canberra and Macquarie Street wrestle with migration caps, zoning reforms and housing targets, Kiama’s newest national champion stands as a reminder that people are more than inputs into the housing crisis equation.
The Bugle’s View is that instead of striving to keep immigrants out to “protect” housing affordability, the better approach is to celebrate our community and those that have had the wherewithal to leave Turkey and make a new home in Terralong.
Myah Garza
Kiama
From meals to medical care: the quiet operation serving the Shoalhaven
Every Sunday at 4pm, outside the Nowra Medical and Skin Centre, Junction Street fills with people seeking something that many of us take for granted – a warm meal, friendly faces and a place to feel safe.
Within 30 to 60 minutes, every one of the 250-500 meals prepared by the Guru Nanak Darbar South Coast Sikh Temple is gone.
For almost three years, the Guru Nanak Free Kitchenette has quietly become one of the Shoalhaven’s most relied-
upon weekend support services, feeding the homeless, the isolated and anyone who needs some help to get by.
“We cook on Saturday evening and start preparing meals again from 5am Sunday,” said secretary Dr Gurdeep Singh, who also volunteers his medical services.
Sikhs are known to provide service during the bushfires and floods along with providing free services to the whole community not only in Nowra, but all over the world.
“We’re always looking for volunteers … anyone can join, any time.
“There’s no restriction –
you just need to be willing to provide service.”
The temple’s work extends far beyond food.
Free medical appointments – including international travelers and people without Medicare – skin cancer checks, general treatments and even emergency shelter are offered seven days a week as part of the Sikh practice of seva, or selfless service.
“We do get a lot of people here who are looking for doctors, especially over the weekend, they can’t find doctors and they always come here and say we are so nice to be having doctors work on the weekend,” Dr Singh said
The temple will soon move from 125 Bells Lane, Meroo Meadow to 13 Westbrook Road, Nowra, where food and shelter will continue to be available not only Sunday, but everyday.
A kiosk is also planned to be installed inside the medical centre in the near future to help people at any hour.
“The service itself is rewarding. We don’t want anything out of it, so we are happy and blessed to be able to provide service to our community,” Dr Singh said.
The weekly operation is supported by a dedicated network of South Coast locals, among them Kerry Fahey, owner of Kiama’s Coastal Fusion, and Maura Cato of Fox Ground.
Fahey began collecting clothing, bedding and towels during the floods earlier this year, then coats during a bitter winter, eventually establishing the temple’s Sunday gatherings in Nowra.
“There’s really nowhere else on the weekend you can get free food in Nowra if you’re homeless,” Fahey said.
South Coast MP Liza Butler has also become a regular supporter, arriving with her hands full.
“Liza has been a big support,” Dr Singh said. “She brings lots of grocery bags, at least 20 a week”
Butler has also recently secured a home for a woman who had been without stable housing for decades.
“It’s really great because then people that wouldn’t normally come to me – I can sit with them in a corner in there and talk to them, help them with whatever’s in their lives,” Butler said.
Fahey also credited Butler
for her aid with the housing.
“We can support them with love, care, food and clothing, but Liza can really help,” Fahey said.
On Thursdays, Fahey and Cato join a group of local women in collecting bread from Baker’s Delight Kiama to help support the Sunday event.
“We get to know people and bond,” Fahey said. “Everyone gets on with what they can. I just wish we had more space.”
Volunteers say the need is growing.
Many people stepping off the last train from Sydney at Bomaderry are looking for a safe place to start again.
“There’s homeless in Kiama and Berry, but nowhere near the number in Nowra,” Cato said. Others have lived locally through long-term hardship.
One woman who visits the kitchen has been homeless since she was 11 - she’s now 40.
“That's a long time to be homeless isn’t it?” Fahey said,
“ She lives with no electricity, no capacity to cook– Liza’s working with her at the moment.”
Cato added: “They just really had a hard life, or it’s the family you’re born into, as simple as that.”
International research on the gap in life expectancy consistently reveals large differences among those who are experiencing homelessness compared with those who are not.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, studies have found people who are homeless die an average of 22 to 33 years younger than those who are housed.
Research has shown much of the mortality gap is due to causes which could be effectively treated with appropriate health care.
The people who come each week to Junction Street remain, in Fahey’s words, “beautiful and so appreciative.”
For Dr Singh, the solution is simple. “Just like a beehive,” he said.
“Bees collect nectar not for themselves, but for others. Our purpose is the same. Our main reason for life is to be of service. That should be the motto of every member of the community.”
Anyone wishing to volunteer can visit the Guru Nanak Darbar South Coast Sikh Temple Saturday from 6pm or Sunday from 5am.
Myah Garza
Smithy’s historical flight
Danielle Woolage
On January 11, 1933 Sir Charles Kingsford Smith and his crew used Gerroa’s Seven Mile Beach as the take-off point for a flight to New Plymouth, New Zealand.
On board was a special batch of cargo - several envelopes postmarked January 10, the day before Kingsford Smith’s Seven Mile beach take-off, and signed by crew and passengers.
Known as airmail cover, and carried on historic flights, only five of the valuable collector's items are thought to exist - with one housed in Gerringong’s History Museum. The letter, carried by “Smithy” and signed by three crew and two passengers, thanked the town’s local ladies for providing a box of peaches to the aviator and his crew before their sandy launch.
“This event established the
first airmail route between Australia and New Zealand and was certainly a significant part of our local history,” says Gerringong Historical Society secretary Joy Fullager.
Joy says the airmail cover, sourced by South Coast stamp collector John Graham and donated to the museum two years ago to mark the 90th anniversary of the historic flight, was a welcome addition to GLaM’s dedicated Charles Kingsford Smith collection.
“People who visit the Gerringong Heritage Museum are always very interested in the items related to Charles Kingsford Smith,” she says.
“The museum has a video with footage of Charles Kingsford Smith landing on Seven Mile Beach in 1933, which is very popular with visitors. The video’s commentary is by Gerringong’s Clive Emery, who watched the historic flight when he was a child.”
Two years after the famous aviator’s take-off from Gerroa to NZ, Kingsford Smith and copilot Tommy Pethybridge went missing on November 8, 1935 while attempting to break the flight speed record between England and Australia.
The final resting place of the pilot, crew, and plane has baffled historians for generations. Now to mark the 90th anniversary of the disappearance of Kingsford Smith aboard his legendary Lockheed Altair 8D aircraft, Lady Southern Cross, awardwinning Australian writer, filmmaker, and explorer Damien Lay has released his book, Of Air and Men.
Lay is considered one of the world's leading authorities on the disappearance of the Lady Southern Cross and has spent more than two decades researching and documenting the historic event.
Of Air and Men not only tells the story of the famed
aviator - the first person to circumnavigate the globe and one of the greatest longdistance flyers in history - but documents Lay’s quest to find his final resting place and the impact Kingsford Smith’s disappearance had on his family. The wreckage of the Lady Southern Cross was first discovered in 2009, off the Burmese coast, using sonar imaging.
Three years and 18 dive expeditions later Lay and his team had recovered more than 40 pieces from the wreck. Many of the dives were over 100 feet in depth in treacherous conditionsnot least due to the political turmoil in Myanmar and the threat of pirates. “We were diving in the most dangerous conditions on earth,” Lay recalls. “Strong currents, nearzero visibility, political turmoil, pirates, militias, we had no medical evacuation, no safety net. Just determination.”
The wreckage found by Lay and his team included timber and fuel lines and the discovery made the modernday explorer even more determined to “one day … bring the men of the Lady Southern Cross home”.
Over the past 20 years, Lay has worked closely with the aviator's son, Charles Arthur Kingsford Smith, who has lived in the US since he was five, as well as the wider Kingsford Smith family, and the Pethybridge family.
The book uses historical fiction to document the aviation legend’s life, the mystery surrounding his final flight, and the impact of his disappearance on his family, including his son who was just
a toddler at the time.
“I have only a few snatches of memory of my father, and I would have greatly enjoyed his love and fellowship growing up but his disappearance just before my third birthday sadly ended that possibility," says the now 92-year-old Kingsford Smith junior.
“Adding to the sadness is the frustration that much is unknown about what happened, so we really can't close the book on his life story. Many have offered theories and speculation about what happened.”
Of Air and Men is available through Amazon, Booktopia and independent booksellers. A copy of the book has been donated to the museum.
Charles Kingsford Smith
Amy Molloy
From burnout to Instagram overwhelm, local businesses are facing real challenges but practical tools and community support are on the rise.
Small business champion Glenn Haworth from Resolve Coaching is bringing three workshops to The Pavilion in Kiama next Friday (12 December), covering mindset, supercharging your Instagram and “AI for everyday life” with subsidised places
available through the NSW Government’s Targeted Skills for Business Program.
He told The Bugle about the challenges facing business owners and the simple shifts that can make the biggest difference.
What common challenges have local businesses faced in 2025?
A big one is awarenesspeople simply don’t know you exist. Attention is on phones, usually social media, so growing an audience has never been more important.
Running a business isn’t easy but these tools make a big difference
Showing up, being authentic and human is key.
When you create content that’s educational, entertaining or emotionalthe three Es, you connect with people.
Stress and burnout are big for business owners. What are your tips for releasing pressure, especially in the lead-up to the silly season?
Mindset needs to be prioritised, and it often isn’t. Do the things that fill your cup: walk, run, see friends, do something just for you.
Without you, there is no
business and everyone loses when you’re not at your best.
Feed your mind like you feed your body: listen to podcasts, be around inspiring people, and show up with the right energy.
How can working parents get clear on their goals when they’re juggling everything?
I call it “embrace the mess.”
You might be in that season. I had a Zoom call this week and my four-year-old wandered in to say hi.
Kids are learning from how
you deal with challenges, and it’s all a teachable moment. Sometimes you just have to embrace the season - and the mess - for what it is.
What daily habits help build momentum?
Look at your goals every day. Create a compelling vision board. Sort your morning routine - I go to the gym, review my goals and often meditate. I also rewrite my goals daily in my diary every day.
How can we support the local small business
community in 2026 and beyond?
Show up. This community is what you make it. Support events, shop local, build relationships, bring good energy.
If you’re a business owner, create community-building moments — like Beau at Kiama Cycles with his monthly rides or Kel at The Sea & Beau with her shopping events. When we all show up, Kiama thrives.
For more information, visit: kcc.nsw.edu.au/courses/ business-bootcamps
A novel Christmas present: Kiama U3A introduces the ‘gift of membership’
Kiama U3A is the local arm of the worldwide U3A organisation that provides informal and affordable learning as well as social activities.
Its members are generally 50-plus who are retired or semi-retired and are looking to keep their minds and bodies active.
“This Christmas, Kiama U3A is offering a special ‘Gift of Membership’ that is a great present for anyone with a little extra time on their hands who would enjoy meeting new people and participating in interesting activities” Kiama U3A president Charles Walker told The Bugle.
Walker added that “for just $30, you can give a gift of 12-month membership that covers all four terms in 2026”. Your membership gift entitles the recipient to a range of benefits including:
- Free weekly talks on topics ranging from Famous Empires to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.
- Low-cost general courses covering everything from Great Inventions to Living in Victorian Times.
- Exercise classes such as Tai Chi for Beginners and social activities such as Mah Jong.
- Excursions to various places of interest such as Cockatoo Island.
Next year is shaping up to be a great year for Kiama U3A members with several new courses in the pipeline.
For instance, some short courses being considered are an introduction to AI, how to take great photos with your smart phone as well as guest speakers from the University of Wollongong who will talk about their research projects.
Kiama U3A is also looking to introduce Lunch and Learn sessions which would
combine a social lunch with a thought-provoking guest speaker.
Other activities being planned are excursions to places such as Venus Shell Systems in Nowra where they produce innovative products from seaweed, a tour of the Sydney Observatory, musical performances, and more! For those who feel like getting more involved, there are also lots of opportunities for members to take a more active role. As a memberrun organisation, members are welcome to participate in tasks ranging from planning activities to providing technical support to giving a talk on an area of interest.
To arrange your gift membership, simply go to the “Events” section on the Kiama U3A website (www.kiama. u3anet.org.au/schedule) where you can order your gift online.
Glenn Haworth
Cricket club president's message to pitch vandals: ‘Come down and enjoy a game instead’
Acouple of weeks ago, two junior cricket teams made their way down to Kiama’s one-of-a-kind ocean-view pitch at Blacks Beach for a weekend match.
Dressed in their whites, they walked out at sunrise only to discover that, sometime in the previous days or nights, the pitch had been damaged
“They noticed some damage to the wicket caused by an e-bike,” said Kiama Cricket President Bernie Brown.
“Someone had ridden their bike there and melted the synthetic, and then ridden off.
Fortunately, the damage was in a spot that didn’t affect play, and the match went ahead. But Brown said the situation could easily have been much worse.
“If that vandalism is in the wrong spot, it makes the pitch dangerous and unplayable,
and the kids miss out. We have to transfer them to other fields outside the region, potentially, and they don't get to enjoy one of the most picturesque sporting fields in the country,” he said.
“It’s a wonderful facility. Everyone loves playing down there. It’s heavily used by our junior teams midweek and on weekends, so it would be really unfortunate - and a significant cost - to patch, repair or replace the synthetic surface.”
Adding to the frustration, Brown noted that the pitch had been rebuilt and resurfaced just three years ago using a Kiama Council grant.
“A lot of hard work from our volunteers and community money went into restoring that facility. It’s disheartening to see that time, energy, and community investment being destroyed by vandalism,” he said.
Although the damage is currently outside the line of play, Brown hopes it can be repaired quickly to avoid encouraging further incidents.
“We don’t want it looked at and replicated by another e-bike user thinking they can copycat. So we’re working with Council to have it patched and repaired - even though it’s not in play - just for the amenity and ongoing safety of the facility,” he said.
This isn’t the only instance of vandalism the club has faced. Their Gainsborough Oval cricket nets were also vandalised in a similar e-bike incident.
“We’ve just been successful in getting a grant to have the damage at the nets replaced and repaired, so the juniors can continue to use that area safely,” Brown said.
To protect the nets, Brown
has been forced to install a gate - something he had hoped to avoid. “It’s unfortunate because we want the facility to be available to the public and the community at all times, not fenced off and padlocked just to stop this behaviour,” he said. “However, we can’t continually ask for grant funding or raise money ourselves to keep replacing facilities that are being attacked by vandals on e-bikes.”
Despite both incidents involving e-bikes, Brown stressed that the club has no issue with the bikes themselves.
“We’re not against legal e-bikes, but we’re definitely against vandalism and the destruction of community assets. There are plenty of other places they could use them on private property - not on cricket wickets. It’s really disheartening.”
Brown even extended an invitation to those responsible for the vandalism - at the pitch or anywhere else in Kiama - to join the cricket club instead.
“We want to put it out there: come and enjoy a game of cricket. Come to our training. Learn to enjoy the sport as much as we do, and hopefully gain greater respect for community infrastructure by seeing the effects of vandalism,” he said.
“It affects the kids, the sporting outcomes, everything. We’d invite them to come along and enjoy cricket. I’d love it if they walked away thinking cricket was a better use of their time.”
Community celebrates Bob’s lifelong service 90 years Young:
More than 70 family members and friends gathered recently at Kiama Leagues Club to celebrate the 90th birthday of long-time Jamberoo local Bob Young, honouring not only a milestone birthday but a lifetime of service to the community.
Born on 30 October 1935 in the Sydney suburb of Lindfield, he was the youngest of three sons to Eric and Ruby Young.
In 1948, he moved with his family to his mother's dairy farm on Riversdale Road, Jamberoo - the property that would later become the wellknown Merley Friesian Stud.
Bob married Annette in 1962, and together they raised three children - David, Colleen and Neil - and now enjoy a growing family of eight grandchildren. The couple moved to Blue Haven Terralong in 2018.
Throughout the afternoon of speeches, a common theme emerged: Bob's unwavering dedication
to faith, family and community.
His contributions span decades and include leadership and life memberships across multiple organisations.
Bob served as president of Kiama Rotary, earning life membership and two Paul Harris Fellowships Awards.
He played key roles in the Kiama Show Society, was a foundation member of Jamberoo Golf Club and Jamberoo Quartet, and lent his support to Jamberoo Rugby League, local tennis clubs, Kiama Anglican, and both Kiama Men’s and Mixed Probus.
In 2011, Bob’s years of service were formally recognised when he was named Kiama Council’s Citizen of the Year.
Saturday's celebration reflected exactly what Bob has given the community - warmth, generosity and a legacy built on connection. Bob's wife Annette says she is proud to call Bob her lifelong partner.
A whimsical new world coming to Bundanon
Myah Garza
Step into a world where pom-poms grow like flowers and curious creatures hide in rainbow scrub — artist Rosie Deacon’s Neon Bushland is bringing her vivid imagination to Bundanon this January.
Described as “a sensory delight for families and the young at heart,” Neon Bushland is an interactive installation that transforms recycled and reused materials into a whimsical landscape of colour and texture. Using crochet, knitting, stitching, beading, painting, clay sculpting and papier-mâché, Deacon invites visitors to explore the work with their hands — and to add their own creations to the ever-growing neon environment.
“Over the last three or four years we’ve really been refining how to run these plays; how to open it up to as many people and diverse groups of people as possible,”said Renae Coles, associate producer for Bundanon’s live program.
Set among 1000 hectares
of bushland overlooking the Shoalhaven River, Bundanon is much more than an art museum. The landscape itself — from the winding drive through the trees to the valley below — is part of the experience. “As you drive, you sort of descend through these trees down into the valley — I think there’s a bit of a shift that we’re not really in the city, we’re not rushing in and out of a museum. We’ve come to a really special place to have an immersive experience,” Coles said.
Visitors will find the museum embedded in the hillside, with the car park at the base of the slope and a short walk leading up to the subterranean gallery.
“Most of this site is actually a floodplain, so they have been really limited in what spaces they can actually use to build,” Coles said. “That’s why that location has become the car park.”
Bundanon operates as a centre for creative arts and education — a place that merges art, environment, and learning. Gifted to the
Australian people in 1993 by artists Arthur and Yvonne Boyd, whose vision was to ensure the property would never become private land, but a shared space for creativity and connection to nature.
“They wanted this to be a place where people can
experience nature, art, and have creative experiences themselves,” Coles said. “And that’s the vision we’re trying to fulfill right now.”
Today, Bundanon’s museum houses the Boyd family collection alongside works by mid to late 20th century
and contemporary Australian artists. It’s also home to an active artist residency program, hosting over 100 creatives each year across disciplines including dance, writing, music and visual arts.
“We have a program where people can apply to work on their own projects, but we also bring in artists to make new work to be shown here at Bundanon,” Coles said. “So we’re very much a place where there is new, fresh creativity on show along with this amazing collection from the Boyd family.”
Sustainability remains central to that creativity.
“When you’re working with contemporary artists, it’s always a concern that we’re making new things,” Coles said. “So, we store a lot of recyclable materials here, and reuse as much as we can.
Rosie’s practice really aligns with that — almost all of her materials are recycled, whether reused from her own past projects or sourced secondhand.”
Bundanon’s partnership with Deacon builds on an
earlier collaboration — a workshop she led earlier this year that inspired Neon Bushland. “We really wanted to bring in a project that was designed for families to come and have a really tactile, immersive experience,” Coles said. “That’s how she came up with Neon Bushland.”
“I had a workshop here at homestead, which was inspired by the flora and fauna as well,” Deacon said. “I left it fairly open-ended for adults to come in, really let loose and build something fun.”
Coles hopes the installation will reach beyond Bundanon’s usual audience. “We’re hoping that this might be an invitation for some non-art people here, as well as our dedicated art lovers,” she said. “This show might bring out some new local groups and people travelling over summer.”
Neon Bushland will run from January 3 to 18, 2026, at the Boyd Education Centre, Bundanon. The event is free and open to all ages.
“I hope people feel welcomed and have a sense of joy — stepping outside reality.”
Lleyton Hughes
Kiama president Bernie Brown at the pitch.
Photos: Ella Gunning
Triple treat as Burnetts On Barney wins award
Myah Garza
Burnetts On Barney has once again been recognised as the Best Small Retail Garden Centre in NSW and ACT, marking the third time the Kiama business has earned this title in five years.
Owner Elizabeth Burnett spoke about the journey that led to this latest win.
The garden centre first captured the award two years ago, also taking home the inaugural People’s Choice Award at the NGINA Industry Awards — a night she calls an unforgettable highlight.
The years that followed were challenging. The
centre faced personal tragedy, retirements of key team members and a period of adjustment as remaining staff took on extra responsibilities and trained new team members.
Awards were far from anyone’s mind during that time.
This year, Burnett quietly attended the awards alone, intending only to support the industry that has long supported her business.
But she was stunned when the centre was announced as the winner again.
“It seriously knocked me sideways.
“To think our team has rallied so much in a year and
been recognised as best in the industry is the kind of honour that fuels hearts and tanks to do what we do and do it even better.”
When asked what set Burnetts apart, one of the judges said: “Community. You’ve got a really great plant nursery, but your relationship with your community makes you far more than just a retailer. Your customers love you and it shows. That’s what sets Burnetts apart.”
The recognition celebrates not only the dedication of Burnett and her team but also the extraordinary community that supports the garden centre, its landscape supplies, and café.
A Lions pride with grassroots action to historic site
Kiama and Minnamurra Lions took matters into their own hands and “slashed” red tape and the grass to help bring the circa 1850s former police residence on Terralong Street back to its former glory.
With the local heritage listed residence in a rundown state, the clubs used their initiative to help make a difference and help ease public concern with their motto “where there is a need there is a Lion” and cut the metre-high grass.
“There were seven of us
here today and everyone chipped in,” Lions member Jim Webb said.
“A lot of people have been talking about how terrible this place is and looks over the last couple of months, with people asking why somebody doesn’t do something about it.”
But it wasn’t as simple as opening the gate and getting to work, there was approval required from NSW Planning and Development.
“We had to get permission to walk through the grounds and also from the NSW Police to park the trailer out the back,” he said.
“So, it is a fair amount of
How a Berry couple turned a simple idea into software used worldwide
Myah Garza
When Dave and Ula first began tinkering with booking software more than a decade ago, it wasn’t a business – it was a side project squeezed between commutes, newborn babies and late-night emails.
“It was literally me from 10pm until 1am, tapping away at my computer answering queries and building it whilst raising two kids at that time,”
Dave said.
“Now it’s four,” Ula said.
“Some of those first customers still remember when it was just Dave replying in the middle of the night.”
Today, that side project is Ovatu – a global booking and automation platform used by 8000 businesses worldwide, supported by a team across Australia and the UK.
toing and froing to get today underway, but as you can see things need to be fixed
“Overall, it was a lot better than it was going to be – we didn’t find any red-bellied black snakes in the long grass!”
Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO Adell Hyslop told The Bugle that she was thankful for the effort the Lions went to and hopes this leads to further action. “We are grateful for the further support of the Lions club to reach out and undertake the project,” Hyslop said.
“We are hoping that there will be upgrades through Property and Development NSW in regard to restoring the building to some former capacity.”
Webb explained it is part of the Lions Club’s ethos to help Kiama maintain a presentable image running into the tourist season. “We try and make sure that the way Kiama is presented looks better this time of year.”
The couple now run the company from their home in Berry, where they’ve lived for the past 10 years, even though locals have only recently realised the scale of what they’ve built.
The company is now gaining international acclaim, with features in Forbes, Vanity Fair and Business Insider, and a 2025 Global Recognition Award for Customer Service Excellence.
“It actually spread faster around the world than it ever did in our own community,” Ula laughed.
“Only in the last year have people in Berry started saying, ‘Hey, I’m opening a salon – can you set me up with software?’”
The Bugle met Dave and Ula at their home – a quiet oasis tucked down a winding drive in Berry’s countryside – where their business has grown from a passion project into a tool used by thousands of small operators around the world.
Their home reflects the philosophy behind their work: calm, practical, uncluttered and centred on what they call “the simple things”.
“We have this joke whenever we hire a new
person - they go out and buy a dog,” Ula said.
“They can finally be at home, enjoy home more, and do something they’ve wanted to do for a long time but their work has prevented them from. It’s just kind of a metaphor for better work–life balance.”
That idea of simplicity is key to Ovatu’s design.
“Ovatu is essentially an appointment booking system,” Ula said. “It’s for anyone who takes appointments, but it’s become more widely used in the hair and beauty aesthetics space.
“It’s designed to make the business admin and appointment booking process really simple and intuitive.”
Their aim has always been to take the stress out of running a small business for those who may not be as tech-savvy. “It’s to take that sort of daunting aspect of running a business away from people who really just want to get on with doing what they’re really good at and practising their craft –not having to stress about the business or technological aspect,” Ula said.
The platform handles invoices, taxes, rostering, reminders – all the things that quietly eat up a workday.
“A lot of our businesses are sole traders, and they don’t really have the time or capacity to set up a really complex operation,” Ula said. “They just want something that will be simple, work for them, and help them.”
Ovatu first took shape in 2010 after the couple returned to Australia from London. Dave was looking for work and experimenting with ideas on the side on his daily commute.
Friends kept asking him to help improve their booking systems, which sparked his curiosity.
“I started looking into what sort of products were around for that and thought they were kind of clunky and expensive so I got to work from that angle,” Dave said. He was also doing
consulting and development work, but being hands-on with ideas had always been part of who he is.
“Dave’s always been really into tech and always tinkering and trying entrepreneurial ideas, always doing things in our own house too to make things more efficient,” Ula said.
The software grew steadily until, by around 2014, it became clear Ovatu was no longer just a project – it was a business.
“It’s almost like an outlet that I needed – that just happened to work,” Dave said.
The couple works with what they describe as a small but exceptional team of 17 employees. Strong customer service, they say, has been central to Ovatu’s growth –especially at a time when many businesses are turning toward automation.
“We feel really fortunate with the people we have,” Ula said. “Everyone is incredibly talented, but they’re also just genuinely good humans. They care about our customers, and they understand the values behind Ovatu.”
Dave said the team is one of the main reasons the business has been able to stay true to its mission. “We give our team flexibility to work around their life, and I feel that improves the quality of the work they do,” Dave said.
Ula agreed: “We always wanted Ovatu to feel personal. Our team is the reason we can support thousands of businesses around the world without losing that sense of connection.”
Despite the global reach, the heart of the business remains unchanged. Their days still start with small routines and, whenever possible, that walk with the dog – the symbol of the simplicity that started it all. For Dave and Ula, Ovatu has always been about giving people space to live their lives, not fill them with more stress. And after 14 years, that simple idea continues to shape everything they do.
Mitchell Beadman
Five-star feedback as ‘Pipes and Drums by the Sea’ strikes a chord
Myah Garza
Kiama Pipe Band’s firstever “Pipes and Drums by the Sea” has been hailed a success, drawing around 90 community members for a hands-on introduction to Scottish music.
Held on 29 November at Sts Peter and Paul Catholic Church, the event exceeded expectations, with people of all ages trying their hand at pipes, drums and learning about the band’s tartans, history and instruments.
Band treasurer and bass drummer Deb Riley said members were “over the moon” with the response.
“We were really, really pleased with how it all turned out. We had around 90 people,
from the really young kiddies right through to older locals,” she said.
“Everyone seemed to be having a lot of fun. It was very relaxed, and people were genuinely interested in everything—from the instruments to the tartans on the walls.”
The interactive sessions proved so popular that some attendees stayed for both performances.
Riley said younger children gravitated toward the drums (“making a bit of noise, of course”), while others took the opportunity to ask about the band’s history and culture.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
“Because it was a grantfunded event, we handed out feedback forms—and most
people gave us full five stars,” Riley said. “Some told us how wonderful the band played and how excited they were to be part of it.”
One attendee later shared a message to the band’s Facebook page: “Excellent. Faultless playing. A privilege to be there to enjoy it. Well done to all associated with the performance.”
Mayor Cameron McDonald attended and officially opened the event, staying to chat with band members and showing a particular interest in the bagpipes.
The day also helped generate interest in the band’s free 10-week introductory program, funded through a Kiama Council cultural grant. Several people registered their details on the day, and Riley
emphasised that enrollments remain open to anyone— whether or not they attended the event.
The Rotary Club of Kiama supported the day with a free sausage sizzle, and musicians from the Shoalhaven City and Sydney Thistle pipe bands joined in to perform.
“It was just a great effort by everyone. We were so humbled by how the community reacted to us and the great feedback they gave. When you put something on, you always worry people won’t come—but we had to get out extra chairs.”
Kiama Pipe Band will next perform at the Homestead of Hope Christmas lunch on 9 December, followed by the Gerringong Christmas Parade on 20 December.
Photos: Ella Gunning
‘Meg’s Farm’ a labour of love for Margaret
Former primary school teacher and community worker Margeret Lester changed direction in 2006, completing a Master of Journalism at Wollongong University in the hope of pursuing her interest in writing.
The Gerringong resident is now an author and publisher following the release of her first book.
She engaged awardwinning Kiama artist Lexie Watt to illustrate the book, “Meg’s Farm, Alice learns to ride her pony.”
A book launch was held at the Gerringong Library this week. Adults and children in attendance were impressed with the realistic illustrations and from learning that the story was based on real events on a local farm. The book features Meg, a 22-year old Irish Connemara Pony, two alpacas, a flock of Angora goats and their kids, a herd of cows and their calves, and lots of chickens, living happily on Meg’s Farm.
The animals and humans all communicate with each other, expressing their feelings and opinions, engaging in a similar way to the characters in “Charlotte’s Web”.
Margaret hopes the book
will encourage primary school aged children, living in urban and rural areas, to enjoy reading about farm animals and life on a farm, a familiar scene for some children and completely new to others.
The children, Alice and Ben, have daily farm chores. Ben feeds his chickens and collects their eggs. Alice feeds her baby Angora kid goats a bottle of milk every morning and afternoon. Alice is determined to ride Meg all over the farm on her own and can’t stop smiling when she is allowed to round up the alpacas on Meg for shearing.
Meg doesn’t think she is too old to continue competing in dressage and cross country events with Clare. Farmer Tom looks after all the farm animals.
Self-publishing is challenging. Margaret used Adobe InDesign to produce her book and chose to have it printed locally at Worldwide Shellharbour in Oak Flats rather than sending it overseas. She hopes to publish three more stories next year.
Enquiries: roselea3@ bigpond.com.
Cedar on Collins opens up to residents reshaping retirement living
Cedar on Collins’ open day offered up a glimpse into their style of retirement living that’s a world away from the usual stereotypes.
The modern retirement community on Collins Street, boasts 56 luxury apartments, and blends high-end facilities
with a connectivity that community manager Laura Hooper says has become its defining feature. A total of 33 residents now call Cedar home. “We’re very much connected and enjoy each other’s company,” she said.
For nearly 90 years, Fresh Hope Communities, has operated retirement, respite and residential services
as well as outdoor group accommodation and more recently affordable housing.
They developed Cedar on Collins with a focus on independence, wellbeing and community.
The Kiama site offers residents a maintenancefree lifestyle: maintenance requests are handled through a resident app and 24/7 emergency alarms and secure key-fob access provide peace of mind. Concierge services give the personal touch.
What really sets Cedar on Collins apart is the way residents have turned the place into a true home.
“What’s evident within our space now is that it’s actually their home, and that’s really important.” Hooper said.
Within walking distance
to Kiama’s shops, cafes, and beaches, the location makes day-to-day life easy.
Residents say the best part is what happens inside the community. “There’s a big social side,” one resident said. Along with the 24/7 gym, facilities include a wine cellar, workshop, landscaped gardens, rooftop terraces, secure underground parking and pet-friendly options.
The on-site workshop, known as The Studio is stocked with materials for painting, woodwork, knitting and crocheting for residents and visiting family to enjoy.
With its airy common spaces and manicured courtyards, the community feels more like a coastal resort than a traditional retirement home. Apartments range
from around $900,000 to $1.5m. One of the most-loved features is the rooftop garden, tended by a group of 10 residents who each look after a section of the space. Harvest days have become a highlight.
“I love it,” Hooper said.
“They harvested yesterday and made deliveries to everyone’s door … They’re getting out of control,” she
joked. “Last year, we had to end up making relish – so many tomatoes.”
Updates from the gardening club appear in each resident newsletter, and the rooftop offers panoramic views across Kiama. Cedar on Collins is designed to offer independence while strengthening residents’ ties to the wider community.
Myah Garza
whats on?
The Angels
Fri 5 Dec, from 7:30pm
Kiama Pavilion
The Angels (Official) are bringing their Echoes Of Thunder Greatest Hits tour to Kiama. Tickets are available online.
Rekindled Fashion Market
Sat 6 Dec, 9am-4pm
Kiama Masonic Hall
A quality pre-loved fashion market where designer label and vintage items can be found.
Starshine - Tribute to Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac
6 Dec, 4pm
Gerringong Co-op
World-class tribute to the music of Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac, delivering the magic, energy, and iconic sound of one of the greatest bands of all time.
Kiama Craft Group
– Show & Tell
8th Dec, 10–11:30am
Kiama Uniting Church
Come along and see what we’ve been creating this year, and find out how to join our friendly group. All experience levels and all crafts are warmly welcome!
Lifeblood Donation
Pop Up
Tue 9 - Sat 13 Dec
Kiama Anglican Church Book a donation today.
Jamberoo Carols in the Park
Tue 9 Dec, 6:30pm
Reid park, Jamberoo
Enjoy the vocal stylings of the Illawarra Seniors Band, Jamberoo Public School and SingSpace Vocal Ensemble.
The Ultimate Christmas Movie Mystery
Thu 11 Dec, 6pm
Cin Cin Bar, Kiama
Immerse yourself in a Christmas story like no other where characters from different movies cross paths and interact with each other.
Shellharbour Carols
By Candlelight
Fri 12 Dec, 5pm-9pm
Croom Regional Sporting Complex
Shellharbour City Council lights up the night with festive cheer. Pre-show activities and stalls will be on from 5pm, with the main event kicking off at 6pm.
Gingerbread Cookie
Decorating
Sat 13 Dec, 10am-12pm
Expressive Art Experience, Kiama Downs
Learn how to decorate a range of gingerbread cookies. Michelle is sharing her decades-long, tried and tested recipe.
Grand Christmas Street Parade
Sat 13 Dec, 11:30pm Queen Street, Berry
Including colourful floats, fire engines, vintage cars, community groups and a visit from Santa.
Gerringong
Street Parade
Sat 20 Dec, 10 am
Belinda Street, Gerringong
Enjoy a festive community celebration with floats, music, and entertainment. Christmas Kiama Picnic Train
Sat 20 Dec - Sun 21 Dec, 10am-7pm Kiama Train Station, Kiama
A special diesel-hauled trip out on the signature Picnic Train journey from Sydney to Kiama and return.
Christmas on the greens
Sat 20 Dec, 4pm-7pm
Gerringong Bowling club
A family-friendly afternoon of live music to bring the community together in celebration of the festive season. Visit from Santa Outdoor Christmas Carols
Sun 21 Dec, 2pm Kiama Presbyterian Church Christmas Day Service
Thu 25 Dec, 9am
Christmas events far and wide bringing cheer
Kiama Presbyterian Church
Bella Char Christmas Day Lunch
Wed 25 Dec, 12:30pm -3:30pm
Bella Char Restaurant and Wine Bar, Gerringong
Enjoy a generous spread of seasonal favourites, from classic roasts and fresh seafood to decadent desserts
New Year's Eve
Fireworks Spectacular & Family Fun Night
Wed 31 Dec, 5pm-9pm
Berry Showground
Fireworks at 9pm, with carnival rides, other entertaining activities and food stalls
NYE25 White Party, Yves Social
Wed 31 Dec, 7pm-late
Yves Kiama
Step into the New Year in style at Yves Social’s NYE White Party, a chic, coastal celebration overlooking Kiama Harbour and the Pacific Ocean.
Neon Bushland with Rosie Deacon
Sat 3 Jan, 10am-2pm Bundanon, 170 Riversdale Road, Illaroo
A sensory delight for families and the young at heart. The installation is predominantly made from recycled and reused materials and invites you to explore luscious textures with your hands.
Profannity Palooza
24 Jan
The Kiama Bowlo
A live rock music event featuring local and regional bands - Profannity, Bush Doofs, Silvia Lane, Ashpit and Scram.
YOHKA™ KIAMA
28-29 March, 2026
Kiama Showground
ocal communities are preparing for a full schedule of Christmas activities in the lead-up to Santa’s arrival on 25 December, with carols, parades, workshops and
Christmas celebrations begin in Jamberoo on Tuesday, 9 December, with the Jamberoo Community Carols in Reid Park from 6:30pm.
The following night, Wednesday, 10 December, Kiama will host Carols in the Park at Hindmarsh Park from 6:30pm.
Families are invited to roll out a picnic blanket, enjoy a sausage sizzle and sing along as local musicians and school choirs fill the evening with beloved Christmas favourites at these two events.
Carols continue across the region with the
Shellharbour Carols at Croom
Regional Sporting Complex on Friday, 12 December with stalls and pre-show activities from 5pm and the festivities finishing at 9pm.
The Bomaderry Nowra Lions Club will host their Christmas Carols in Harry Sawkins Park on Sunday, 14 December - with the Nowra Town Band and fireworks all part of the fun.
Outdoor Christmas Carols will be at Kiama Presbyterian Church on Sunday, 21 December at 2pm, followed by Christmas Eve Carols at Jamberoo Anglican Church on Wednesday, 24 December at 5pm.
Both churches will also host Christmas morning services at 9am on Thursday, 25 December.
A range of community events will complement the carols program.
Berry’s Grand Christmas Street Parade takes place on Saturday, 13 December at 11.30am along Queen Street, while Gerringong will hold its Street Parade on Saturday, 20
December at 10am. That same afternoon, the Gerringong Bowling Club will run Christmas on the Greens from 4-7pm.
Families can also join the Gingerbread Cookie Decorating workshop at Expressive Art Experience, Kiama Downs, on Saturday, 13 December, from 10am to midday.
For entertainment, Cin Cin Bar hosts The Ultimate Christmas Movie Mystery on Thursday, 11 December at 6pm, offering an interactive Christmas-themed storyline. Transport enthusiasts can board the Christmas Kiama Picnic Train, operating 20–21 December between Sydney and Kiama from 10am to 7pm. On Christmas Day, Bella Char Restaurant and Wine Bar in Gerringong will host a Christmas lunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. With events spanning music, community gatherings, creative activities and family outings, the region is set for a diverse and engaging Christmas season.
Nippers brave rough seas for 2025 Saddleback Mountain Cup
Just over 200 kids took to the rough waters at Jones Beach for the 2025 Saddleback Mountain Cup on 23 November, enjoying a day of friendly competition and fun for young nippers.
Hosted this year by Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC), the Saddleback Cup brings together nippers from Kiama, Kiama Downs, Gerringong, Shoalhaven Heads and Sussex Inlet surf clubs for a mixture of relaybased events.
“It’s a fun nippers minicarnival aimed at getting all the kids involved in some sort of activity,” said Kiama Downs SLSC Junior Activities Coordinator Ben Woods.
Lleyon Hughes
It was a week of losses against competition leaders for the Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club - with the only victories coming from teams not facing laddertopping opponents.
The round began with an excruciatingly close match on Friday between the Kiama Cavettes and the undefeated Kookas at Bonaira.
The Cavettes put themselves in a strong position early.
“They held the competition leaders to only 147 from the allotted 20 overs, which was a fantastic effort with the ball and in the field. Then they went out chasing in fine style with the two openers both retiring not out,” said Kiama
“It’s usually their first experience of competition, and it’s also an opportunity to have a bit of fun with the local clubs - with just a little bit of rivalry.”
This year marked the second time the competition had expanded to include Shoalhaven Heads and Sussex Inlet. Despite some rough weather before and during the tournament, the event was a success.
“It was a really good day,” Woods said.
“After a lot of rain throughout the night, I was a little bit worried it was going to keep raining, but at six o’clock the sun came out and it ended up being pretty warm down on the beach.”
The surf conditions were
Cricket Club president Bernie Brown.
Despite Ebony Winston’s 55 not out and Ava Sloan’s 35 not out, both forced to retire, Kiama’s run rate slowed and they fell just six runs short of the target.
“The Cavettes worked really hard. However, they just couldn’t reel in the last six or seven runs. It was an amazing effort by the girls,” Brown said.
“We’ve now completed a full round and will start again, pushing through to the finals in the new year. They did really well.”
First grade faced top-ofthe-table Lake Illawarra at the Kiama Sporting Complex, but never managed to build momentum. “They struggled to get the innings going, with
challenging for some of the younger nippers, so organisers adjusted the courses accordingly.
“We didn’t send the young ones all the way out the back,” Woods added.
The program was packed with team-based events: age relays, over-and-under relays, all-age relays, sprint relays, and even a tug of war. But the highlight of the day, as always, was the parent relay.
“The big highlight for all the kids is always the parent relay at the end, where the parents face off against the kids,” Woods said.
While the focus of the day was on participation and enjoyment, Kiama Downs ultimately finished with the overall win.
Woods said that despite the low-stakes atmosphere, the event plays an important role in the surf club calendar.
“I think it really celebrates nippers as an activity, and it’s important in the grassroots development of surf life saving,” he said.
“It gives kids that first taste of competition.
“Sometimes the bigger carnivals can be a bit daunting, so having a fun, smaller carnival can be the springboard into those bigger events later on.”
He thanked all the participating clubs, along with the volunteers, age managers and water safety personnel whose efforts ensure the tradition continues each year.
the accurate bowling from Lake Illawarra proving difficult to get away,” said Brown. “Lake Illawarra cruised to victory only two down, with Kerrod White unbeaten on 98.”
Third grade also took on their competition leaders, the undefeated Oak Flats Rats, away from home.
The Cavaliers posted 187 from their 40 overs, with
Kiama Tennis Club’s annual "Vets and Legends” tournament was well supported by locals and visiting South Coast players.
Club president David Lehman was pleased with the turnout although the Round Robin events were briefly halted by a morning storm.
Kiama’s Tracey Coleman performed well in the ladies doubles with Chris Stiller, recording victories in the aged and combined aged ladies doubles.
In the singles events played on the Friday, KSDTA Ladies Competition secretary Jan Horspool won the Group B singles event, defeating Leoni Murphy.
In the men's open singles, two local tennis coachesJoe Moseley from Kiama and Shaun Rose (Blowhole) were the finalists. Moseley picked up the "Quad Crown" with wins over Shaun Rose in the singles and combining with Shaun in the aged men's doubles to beat Michael Veith and James Cain (Kiama).
In the Aged doubles, Joe and Shaun defeated Manual Radich and Todd de Leeuw from Wollongong. Joe's fourth event victory was with Tammy McDonald (Kiama), defeating Lehman and Alana Green in the Group A mixed doubles final.
Ross Smith paired up with Kay Daniel to take out the Group C mixed doubles with a close win over Bob Morgan and Hilary Brigden. The final of the Group B aged mixed doubles was a local affair with James Brown and Helga Pimm defeating Ralph Szulerowski and Katie Sharpe. A relative newcomer to tournament tennis, Maree Hackett, teamed up with Colin Elliot to lose a close Group C mixed final. David Graham (Kiama) and his son Simon (Canberra) took out the combined aged Group B doubles event. The tournament committee was pleased by the sponsorship support of ANZ bank and Easts Beach Big 4 Caravan Park.
captain Nathan Battishall topscoring with 55.
“The Cavs took the field with their tails up and got stuck into the Rats, but it took a while to break a dominant opening partnership. Once they took the first wicket, they applied pressure, but their total ultimately proved 30 to 50 runs short, with the home side passing the score six down,” Brown said.
There was brighter news for second grade, who claimed a dominant win over Shellharbour away.
“Batting first, the Cavs piled on 251, with new club recruit Sheldon Hall scoring 60 to top the tally. The Cavs then bowled brilliantly from ball one, restricting the home side to just 179,” Brown said.
Hall also contributed with the ball, taking four wickets. Fourth grade secured another strong win, this time against Albion Park, lifting them to second on the ladder.
“Cavs batted first and once again Adam McCrone led the way with 68 not out from only 32 deliveries, asserting his dominance on the competition,” said Brown.
“But it was the performances from the young players who stood up again for the Cavaliers - led by Oliver Wilson with 34 not out.”
The Cavaliers set 206 for victory and were excellent with the ball in reply, restricting Albion Park to 115 with Giles Brown bagging 4-19 and Adam McCrone completing an excellent day out with 3-19.
Lleyon Hughes
The young nippers on the starting line at the Saddleback Cup. Photo Ben Woods
Over 200 nippers participated on the day.
Photo Ben Woods
Kiama young gun selected for Australian u16s Asher’s on fast track to top:
Lleyton Hughes
Kiama Rugby Club
junior Asher Chapman has been selected to represent Australia in the Under-16 Australian squad.
Chosen after his standout season with the NSW Waratahs U16s, Chapman will attend a development camp this month before lining up against the Queensland Reds U17s at Wests Rugby Club on Thursday, 11 December.
New Kiama Rugby Juniors president Richard Payne said he is thrilled to see a local player reach the national stage. “I watched all of his NSW games through the Super AU series on TV and he was a complete standout the whole time,” Payne said.
“I think he finished as the leading try-scorer, or very close to it. He just stood out with the ball in hand, and defensively he looked very comfortable at that level - he commanded the ball, found space, had beautiful footwork and great defence. Really exciting.”
Chapman was the only Illawarra rugby player selected, and he has been a long-term junior at Kiama Rugby Club.
“He’s been playing since he was eight, I believe- so forever,” Payne said. “He’s been a long-term junior, and his dad was a former president of the Junior Club and is now president of Illawarra Rugby. They’re a family who have dedicated a lot of time to the club.”
Despite juggling commitments with NSW, Australia and rugby league for the Illawarra Steelers, Payne said Chapman always makes time to return to Kiama.
“This year he was tied up with a huge amount of representative football in both codes, and he always found time to come back and play for Kiama,” he said.
“I watched him play a few games and he did some special things that not many people can do on a football field.
“The boys got such a thrill out of playing with him - he got them all the way to the grand final. He was a huge part of that. He’s an amazing football player, but he’s also really dedicated to the club.”
Payne said Chapman is already a role model to younger players.
“All the boys in that team got around him and went up to a couple of those New South Wales games. They absolutely loved watching him on that big stage and you could actually hear them through the TVthey were pretty loud, pretty supportive,” he laughed.
“He’s a great role model for the other young kids coming
through who aspire to do some pretty cool things like he is now.”
What makes Chapman special, Payne said, is the combination of natural ability and hard work.
“He’s always been talented - I remember watching him run at Australian Champs in primary school. He’s super quick.
“But he keeps getting better because natural talent only gets you so far. His greatest strengths are his work ethic, dedication and passion for the sport,” he said.
“To stand out when you’re playing against Queensland, when you’re representing NSW - you’ve got to be a pretty special talent. And he certainly did. He’s put himself into that upper echelon, and Rugby Australia is clearly paying attention.”
The Australian U16 squad will face the Queensland Reds U17s at Wests Rugby Club on Thursday, 11 December, with the match streamed live on rugby.com.au and the Rugby. com.au YouTube channel.
TUESDAY NIGHT MIXED
JUNIOR MINI-BALL
Lions in demand with NRL offers flooding in
Gerringong juniors
Reuben Garrick and Tyran Wishart look like they will be on the move from their current NRL clubs.
Garrick is coming into the final year of his contract at Manly but is reportedly set to switch to the Roosters in 2027.
The Sea Eagles had offered the goal-kicking outside back a two-year contract extension worth more than $1 million but he is set to ink a deal with the Roosters as a replacement for dual international Mark Nawaqanitawase, who is heading back to rugby union.
Garrick is coming off one of his best seasons with Manly after scoring 12 tries and booting 67 goals in tallying 176 points from 21 matches.
He switched between centre and wing throughout the season to be one of the Sea Eagles’ most consistent performers.
The 28-year-old has played
club in search of a regular starting spot.
The versatile 26-year-old, who is Garrick’s brother-inlaw, has been sounded out by Bears coach Mal Meninga as a potential building block for their foundation roster when they come in as the competition’s 18th team.
Melbourne have exercised an option on Wishart’s services for next season but he is then a free agent and with Jahrome Hughes and Harry Grant under contract long term and Cameron Munster signed up until the end of 2027, there is little chance of securing a starting spot.
Wishart has been used off the bench in 57 of his 82 NRL appearances for the Storm since his debut in 2022. His preferred option is to play in the halves and with the Bears signing Toby Sexton last week, Wishart could slot in at five-eighth alongside the former Canterbury playmaker.
Tigers batters feast on Ex Servos in dominant win
Huge scores were the order of the day on Saturday in round eight of South Coast cricket with Bomaderry blasting 6-343 in their one-dayer against Ex Servos.
After recent wet weather had tipped the scales in the bowlers’ favour, the batters made hay while the sun shone on the weekend.
The Tigers lost a couple of early wickets but recovered to score at nearly seven an over with captain Kealen Blattner (57), Michael Coulter (34), Ryan Henry (83), Daniel Troy (48) and Matthew Shea (48 not out) finding the boundary regularly.
Troy needed just 28 balls for his innings which included seven fours and two sixes.
Ex Servos were going OK at 1-66 but after opener Lukas Janes fell for 43, they lost a steady run of wickets to be all out for 155 despite 36 from tailender Joshua McDowell.
Coulter completed a fine allround contribution with 4-23.
Shoalhaven stablemates North Nowra Cambewarra also posted a big score in making 9-280 against Oak Flats at Bernie Regan Sports Ground.
Hyeon Parsons found the
boundary rope 10 times and cleared it on eight occasions in making 105, sharing a decisive third-wicket partnership with captain Nathan Thomas (63).
Rats captain Jack Bennett struck a run-a-ball 56 but Cooper Luke’s 5-13 ensured they finished well short of their target, all out for 201.
Kookas were in a spot of bother at 5-140 against Albion Park before Jonathan Yeo’s 64 and an unbeaten 84 from Chris Leaudais lifted them to 6-296.
Park were looking good in their run-chase after captain Cooper Hayes smashed 91 at opener but they couldn’t keep up the momentum and finished 76 runs shy.
Shellharbour posted 9-263 at Sanctuary Point after opener Jacob Coleman’s 93 and Daniel Smith’s 81 dominated the Bay and Basin bowling attack, apart from Lachlan Barry’s 4-34.
In reply, the home side were tracking well after openers Tom Dolby (44) and Caleb McLennan (66) got on the front foot but apart from Damien Gilkes’ 42, the rest of the batters failed to fire and they were dismissed for 229.
All-rounder Jim Glazbrook was the star with the ball for
Harbour, taking 5-32.
Lake Illawarra maintained top spot in the only match which did not feature a large total.
Kiama lost 3-21 before David Coleman’s 32 and 36 from skipper Jaya Hartgerink meant they avoided embarrassment to put 149 on the board at Cavalier Park.
Lakers captain Kerrod White, after taking 3-25, flayed the bowling in making 98 not out from just 68 deliveries as the visitors reached their target in the 21st over.
This Saturday, Albion Park take on Oak Flats in a local derby at Keith Grey Oval, Bomaderry are at home to North Nowra, Kookas face Lake at Oakleigh Park, Kiama travel to Bay and Basin while Ex Servos head north to Shellharbour.
Ladder: Lake 52, Shellharbour 47, North Nowra, Kiama 38, Bay and Basin 37, Bomaderry 34, Kookas 22, Albion Park 20, Oak Flats 18, Ex Servos 10.
In the women’s competition, Kookas kept top spot after winning a six-run thriller over Kiama at Bonaira Oval.
Jennifer Kitchen (62) and Mel Nolan (35) were in the
runs as Kookas made 5-147 from their 20 overs and Kiama started strongly with openers Ebony Winston (55) and Ava Sloan (35) facing their 40 deliveries but the team fell just short of victory.
Jessica Bramble (70) and Shannon Spears (30 not out) excelled as the Ratatouilles (3147) got the better of Lake (599) while Anne Boatswain (59
not out) and Maya Huetter (52 not out) starred as the Ratettes (1-167) cruised to victory over Albion Park (9-38) with young guns Betsy Higgins (3-7) and Emerson Boatswain (4-6) firing with the ball.
In the other match, Shellharbour could only manage 7-38 with Ex Servos chasing that down with six wickets to spare.
This Friday night, Shellharbour travel to Kiama, the Ratettes lock horns with the Ratatouilles in an all-Oak Flats affair while Lake play Kookas at Myimbarr, and Ex Servos hit the road to face Albion Park.
Ladder: Kookas 24, Ratatouille, Ratettes 18, Lake 14, Ex Servos 12, Kiama, Albion Park 10, Shellharbour 2.
157 matches for Manly since his debut in 2019, scoring 1340 points, including 89 tries.
St George Illawarra were also in the race for his signature but he appears set to knock back
his junior club to become a Rooster after next season. Wishart last week toured
the facilities of the new Perth Bears franchise as he looks to decide whether to join a new
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Opening of Gerringong Town Hall
Mark Emery
The old School of Arts hall, where the GLaM is now, was the centre of all social activities in Gerringong for many years.
Whenever there was a 21st birthday, engagement party, dinner dance, celebration night after Gerringong had won a premiership in sport or any other great social occasion, it was held in this building.
My personal memory of this wonderful old building was that it was for many years, the Scout and Guide Hall.
Many a splinter was picked up sliding on the floor during games.
But after the end of the Second World War, it was felt that a new, larger and more solid building was needed to reflect the progress our town was making.
So, it came to be that a proposal was put forward by the Mayor G.E. Chittick and the Town Clerk A.M. Trevallion to gauge the interest from the community.
There was certainly enough interest.
This proposal was sent out in 1946 and here is a ticket to the Grand Civic Ball to
commemorate the opening of the hall in November 1948 by J.J. Cahill just two years later.
The tickets cost five shillings, about 50 cents.
Gerringong Town Hall has been a centrepiece of the town ever since.
Any person living in Gerringong after the end of the war would have fond memories of going to functions there.
My personal favourites were going to the pictures and performing in the school play in the last term of the year at Gerringong Public School, which, at the time, was just next door.
Historian’s new book charts the South Coast’s forgotten coach and rail routes
Myah Garza
If you’ve ever wondered how people travelled to and from the South Coast long before buses, highways or a reliable rail line — historian Kevin Setter has spent years uncovering the answers.
The Moruya-based researcher has traced the early transport and mail contracts that linked the railhead at Campbelltown with communities across the Illawarra and South Coast. His new book Stagecoaches and Royal Mail Illawarra Region follows routes through Appin, Bulli, Waterfall and Milton, as well as the connections from Moss Vale through Kangaroo Valley to Nowra and Braidwood.
Covering 1837 to 1914, Setter documents everything from passenger conditions to railway delays, coach accidents and shifting mail schedules.
Setter said the book “gives account of the conditions the coach drivers and passengers had to endure, placed upon them by the postal authorities and courts in relation to numbers they were permitted to carry in the various coaches; accidents, holdups, disputes between the various drivers.”
The new 244-
page, fully indexed book draws heavily on historical newspapers and original court and rail records.
“I use much of the local newspapers to gather all this information,” he said.
Setter also used Trove, which he has done for his previous publications.
“Even on Trove, there’s gaps in information,” he said, “ There’s lots of papers that were destroyed accidentally or maybe through fires and things like that, the old copies were lost.”
“A lot of records have been lost– They’re just gone unless you can find it in another paper, a lot of the time you’ll get quotes from other areas of things that have happened.”
His passion for transport history and drive to learn dates back to his studies in the 1990s.
“When I was doing an associates diploma in the local and applied history at New England back in the 90s, I was going through court records and I’d seen where the stage coaches were registered by the courts.”
Those early notes eventually formed the basis for his later work.
Setter’s interest also runs through his family. “My great grandfather used to drive coaches in Victoria – It was James Edwards.”
He hopes the book will prove useful to anyone researching their own ancestry.
“It would be a great book for people doing family history to be able to check
what their ancestors were up to.”
Through his extensive research, Setter’s work launches you back in time by capturing what early travel really felt like, shaped entirely by mail timetables and the arrival of trains.
“People don’t know what others before us had to endure to get around without any means of communication,”
Setter said, “They relied on the mail so much to communicate with the city, relied on mail to arrive so they had time to answer it before the outgoing mail went again – especially business people.”
The book also includes major incidents from the era. “There’s lots of holdups, lots of accidents – there’s a big fatal accident on Bulli pass at one stage, plus other accidents have occurred that are documented.”
Its cover features a tapestry version of a Tom Roberts painting — something Setter created himself years ago.
This is his third transport history title, and he’s already working on the next.
“It’s kept me going for the last couple years – I’ve done the three – I got another one in progress of prisoners in the shipwrecks of the Eurobodalla coast – over 30 of them.”
He is also preparing a history of the Catholic Church in Moruya.
“It’s the sort of thing I’ve had an interest in, doing local history and trying to preserve some of it before it’s lost completely. It gives me a greater appreciation of what people had to endure in the past. I like local history – I’m very, very keen on it.”
Setter was the 2023 recipient of the Fergus Thomson OAM Heritage Award for his previous publication Stage Coaches and Royal Mail Southern Eastern NSW 1841–1913.
Copies of his new book are available from setterk@ southernphone.com.au for $40 plus $15.25 postage.
Why the beach is my happy place Summer lovin':
Carol Goddard
The beach has been my happy place my entire life.
Growing up on Australia’s East Coast, my parents ensured my younger sisters and I were water babies from a very young age.
We spent many indulgent hours lying in the warm Bondi Beach sand, or making intricate drizzle sandcastles, or jumping over waves at the shoreline, as well as throwing handfuls of sand at each other, or splashing each other mercilessly with salty water.
All this family beachgoing was initiated by my Dad, who was up at the crack of dawn on weekends, making multiple sandwiches for the day ahead, and beseeching us all to get out of bed, it was a ‘good beach day’.
He just happened to have a weekend job right on iconic Bondi Beach.
Not only did he hire out surf craft, deck chairs and wigwams for public use, but he had another task which today would most certainly be frowned upon.
Not only by the Cancer Council, but probably by a plethora of bureaucratic bodies.
He was employed to spraypaint suntan oil, no spf in those days, onto the bodies of people wanting to pay their way to a golden tan.
Mostly young, scantily clad ladies.
I was a child at the time and didn’t understand my
mother’s angst. But it was all in a day’s work, and of course my dad loved his rather unique job.
Dad taught me to surf. I was his tomboy daughter, I had no fear, and when it finally clicked, when I could finally get a wave on my own, oh the racing heart, the absolute joy!
Flying down the face of waves, often monumentally wiping out, losing my breath and having a nose full of saltwater were all part of those heady beach days.
As was the sunburn. My parents were olive-skinned. I was not. Sure, we sat under a wigwam shelter when not in the water, but this was the 1950s.
I do not remember applying anything other than a dab of white zinc across my nose and cheeks. Dad didn’t spraypaint his wife or children. Needless to say, I could write a book about personal sun damage.
Those days were nevertheless memorable.
Long days in the sun which ended with us transplanting our sandy feet, wet towels, boards and assorted gear into Dad’s car for the short drive home.
Via the Bondi Hotel.
Dad and Mum loved a beer. Or two. They would park in the hotel carpark, then leave us three children in the car while they went inside for a drink.
Occasionally, Dad would come out to check on us, sometimes with a Blue Bow lemonade to keep us happy. Or to bribe us.
After a while, the parents
would emerge from the pub, happy with a few under their belt, and we then drove home. How times have changed! I now look back and laugh at how free and easy, and sometimes politically incorrect and outrageous my early family life was.
Going to the beach for me is far different these days, but no less fun. I’m nowhere near as adventurous in the surf as I used to be - I’m covered in sunscreen, wear a hat and don’t lie in the sun.
Today, I watch young families arrive at our main beach in Kiama with carts on wheels, almost overbalancing with eskies, towels, cabanas, assorted boogie boards and beach toys. It’s a military operation setting up for the day.
Children are now dutifully wearing hats and rash shirts. Parents are tending to their every whim.
In contrast, we would hit the beach, jump straight in the water, and then we’d roam all day, from North to South end.
Mum had her sunbaking group, Dad worked, and we three kids only appeared back at our spot when we were hungry.
Different times, different ways of child rearing.
And if given the opportunity, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have just a bit of saltwater still flowing through my veins.
You can read more about Carol's thoughts at her blog, Carol Writes
